Central Park resident Viggy Ravilla is graduating from Issaquah High School this spring! He has spent the last two years on the Highlands Youth (HY) Advisory Board. Viggy will attend the University of Washington in the fall, where he plans to continue with medical school after his undergraduate studies.
Here are some of Viggy’s biggest takeaways from the last two years on the HY Board:
Viggy leads an activity during Treats & Tails.
What did you learn from your experience on the HY Board?
I learned a lot about how to plan and organize events, as well as how to improve my communication skills with other people.
What did you enjoy?
I enjoyed meeting new people and helping with all the events and activities that we hosted, along with the food that we got to eat as well.
What surprised you about being on the HY Board?
I was most surprised by the impact our HY Board has on Issaquah Highlands itself. We, as a group, have a direct impact on the actions of the community and the IHCA, showing the power of our voice. Another thing that surprised me was how many different events we host throughout the year for people of all ages.
If you were just joining, knowing what you know now, would you have done anything
Viggy signs in students during the Middle School Halloween Party.
differently as a HY Board member?
I wish I could have spoken up more about things and shared more of my ideas.
What is your legacy contribution to the HY Board?
My legacy is The Big Game Watch Party, which we implemented in 2023. I’m really happy with how this event has evolved over the past couple of years, especially since I was hesitant that it would be a success at first.
What is your message to the remaining HY Board members?
Viggy entertains kids during Parents Night Out in December 2023.
If you can dream it, you can do it. If you guys have any ideas or ways to improve Issaquah Highlands, no matter how big or small, there will always be ways to make your dreams a reality. It just has to start with you. Along with that, have fun during your time on the board and get involved with community events throughout the year! These events are a great way to meet new people and participate in the community.
What are your hopes for the future of the HY Board and its impact on neighborhood peers?
I hope that The HY Board can have more of an impact when it comes to decisions that the IHCA makes regarding the entire community. Other than that, I look forward to seeing the board continue to find more ways to connect to our youth beyond our annual Middle School Halloween Party, Flashlight Egg Hunt and Parents Night Out events.
Viggy, far left, helps organize the Global Grub & Groove in celebration of Indian culture in summer 2023.
How did the HY Board build your self-confidence?
The HY Board makes me feel like I am helping to make a difference in our vibrant community. It feels good to know that I am making a positive impact for our residents.
What new skills did you learn?
I learned how to better communicate with other people, in addition to public speaking, teamwork and management.
Do you feel better prepared for your next life chapter/the college experience because of your HY experience?
Yes, definitely. I have enjoyed my time serving on the HY Board, participating in community service events, and helping others. I plan to continue participating in community activities as I go into college and beyond, and I hope to make a positive impact in people’s lives both directly and indirectly as life goes on. Being on this board gave me a sense of community, and it made me realize the benefit of having conversations with neighbors and making new connections. I will cherish these experiences during my time here and apply them to my life in the future.
Viggy is a senior at Issaquah High School and a Central Park resident.
Now Accepting 2024-2025 HY Board Applications
The HY Board is now accepting applications for the 2024-2025 school year. Ideal candidates are motivated, outgoing, creative, and dedicated to making our community better. Candidates must live in Issaquah Highlands and be entering seventh through 12th grade in fall 2024. The deadline for application submissions is April 30.
Top applicants will be invited to a personal interview for final consideration. Click here for more information and application details.
Submit Your Free Graduation Announcement!
Highlands Council seeks graduation announcements for publication in the summer 2023 issue of Connections. At this time, we are seeking announcements for graduates from high school, college, and technical/trade schools.
To be featured, graduation announcements must be submitted by May 31, 2023. Be sure to select “Graduation” in the announcement form to provide all the relevant information for your announcement. Click here to submit your free announcement.
